Zuiganji Temple

Zuigan-ji is a Rinzai Zen temple (Myoshin-ji school) associated with Date Masamune, and it is also known as a place visited by Matsuo Basho. The main hall is a grand complex richly decorated with openwork carvings and gold-leaf fusuma paintings by Kano-school artists. Date Masamune completed it in 1609 (Keicho 14) after five years of work. As a valuable architectural heritage of Momoyama art, it is designated a National Treasure. The on-site treasure house stores roughly 30,000 items, focusing on Date domain materials and hosting seasonal and themed exhibitions. The approach and gardens are beautifully maintained, and the quiet atmosphere feels refreshing. A sutra-copying session is held once a week for those interested. By the sea stands Godaido, an outer hall and famous symbol of Matsushima. Access: about a 10-minute walk from JR Senseki Line “Matsushima-Kaigan Station,” or about a 25-minute walk from JR Tohoku Main Line “Matsushima Station.” A must-visit when you come to Matsushima.